What is Schoolies Week?
Schoolies Week is the period after final exams in late November and early December when Australian school leavers celebrate, often travelling to beach destinations such as the Gold Coast.
The tradition began on the Gold Coast in the 1970s. Today, tens of thousands of school leavers, called schoolies, gather at places such as Surfers Paradise, Byron Bay, Victor Harbor, Lorne and Rottnest Island.
Celebrations include beach parties, concerts and nightlife. Authorities run official events, safe zones and volunteer support programs.
Safety concerns
Schoolies has a reputation for heavy drinking and risky behaviour, leading to injuries and arrests in some years. Police, governments and volunteer groups such as Red Frogs provide support, water, food and safe transport to reduce harm.
Some school leavers travel overseas to destinations such as Bali or Fiji, where Australian authorities issue travel advice about safety and local laws. Others choose quieter trips, volunteering holidays or camping with friends.
Queensland's Gold Coast schoolies events require wristbands for official areas, and many parents discuss safety plans with their teenagers before the trip.
Did You Know?
Older people who try to join schoolies celebrations are nicknamed toolies and are discouraged by organisers and police.